Welcome to the GeoServer development community

As a new geoserver developer this document will get you set up with our build system, show you how to do some common tasks and introduce you to the framework with an example.

You should already be somewhat familiar with the following technologies:

• Java
• J2EE (basic knowledge is fine, knowing what a servlet is)
• OGC Open Web Services, once again a vague idea will be enough to start out with

We would also ask that you be familiar with "normal" Java development practices such as writing test cases and keeping javadocs useful.

You will get alot more out of the GeoServer experience if you are actually interested in OGC Web Services and have read a couple of the specifications such as WMS, WFS and SLD.

For the experienced GeoServer developer this document will gather together architecture information and high level articles that should help guide you through any tough design decisions you need to make. By understanding the spirit in which GeoServer was built, and the standards we set for ourselves, we can keep this great project alive, happy, and maintainable.

For the truly brave this guide will also provide procedures for the big ticket - the GeoServer product. You will find guides on branching, merging and releasing geoserver.